Toto Wolff: Re-signed Valtteri Bottas could be leading 2018 F1 standings

Toto Wolff has praised Valtteri Bottas’ on-track performance and off-track conduct, in the wake of extending the Finn’s contract with Mercedes through 2019, believing he could be leading the 2018 F1 standings.

Bottas joined Mercedes from Williams for 2017 and was handed a one-year extension to continue alongside World Champion Lewis Hamilton.

Bottas has yet to win a race in 2018 and holds only fifth in the standings, 67 points behind title leader Sebastian Vettel.

But Bottas has impressed with his speed and consistency through 2018, and has had several opportunities slip through his grasp, most prominently in Azerbaijan, where a late puncture cost him victory.

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Mercedes confirmed on Friday that Bottas will remain with the team in 2019 and an option exists to continue the partnership into 2020, prompting Wolff to praise the 28-year-old’s contribution to the manufacturer.

“We are very pleased to extend Valtteri's contract with Mercedes for another season at least – and to be able to confirm an unchanged driver line-up for 2019, ahead of our home race in Hockenheim,” said Wolff.

“Valtteri's performances have been excellent this season and, if not for our mistakes and his misfortune, he could be leading the Drivers' Championship at the moment.

“When we took the decision in favour of Valtteri for 2019, it wasn't just about his undoubted speed and work ethic, but also a question of character.

“His relationship with the team, including Lewis, is open and trusting, without any politics at all.

“Those are the ingredients you need when you're fighting strong rivals in both championships and they mirror the values inside the team.

“I am very excited to keep Valtteri in the team and look forward to celebrating many more successes with him.”